ATTENTION, a cautionary word used as a preparative to any particular exercise or manœuvre. Garde-á-vous, which is pronounced Gar-a-vous, has the same signification in the French service.
ATTESTATION, a certificate made by some justice of the peace of the enlistment of a recruit. This certificate is to bear testimony, that the recruit has been brought before him in conformity to law and has declared his assent or dissent to such enlistment; and, if according to the law he shall have been, and is duly enlisted, that the proper oath has been administered to him by the said magistrate.
ATILT, in the attitude of thrusting with a spear, &c. as was formerly the case in tournaments, &c.
AVANT, Fr. foremost, most advanced toward the enemy, as
Avant-chemin couvert, Fr. The advanced covert-way which is made at the foot of the glacis to oppose the approaches of an enemy.
Avant-duc, Fr. The pile-work which is formed by a number of young trees on the edge or entrance of a river. They are driven into the ground with battering rams or strong pieces of iron, to form a level floor, by means of strong planks being nailed upon it, which serve for the foundation of a bridge. Boats are placed wherever the avant-duc terminates. The avant-duc is had recourse to when the river is so broad that there are not boats sufficient to make a bridge across. Avant-ducs are made on each side of the river.
Avant-fossé, Fr. The ditch of the counterscarp next to the country. It is dug at the foot of the glacis. See [Fortification].
Avant-garde. See [Van Guard].
Avant-train, Fr. The limbers of a field piece, on which are placed one or two boxes containing ammunition enough for immediate service.
AUDITOR, the person who audits regimental or other military accounts.